- Introduction
- Humanitarian Reforms
Social Reforms
- Women's Rights
- Education
- Practice
- Summary & Tasks
Social Reforms
Horace Mann served as Secretary of the Massachusetts Board of Education and believed that education was the key to American reform. He advocated free public schools, expanded curricula, and improved teacher training.
In pursuit of societal perfection, social and moral reforms were also instituted. Education became the focus of some reformers, such as Horace Mann, who thought that a better educated society was the key to societal ills. They advocated free public education for the masses, expanded curricula, and better teacher training. As the number of schools increased, women found themselves in a new professional role, as thousands signed up to become teachers. Secondary and higher education institutions also allowed women to attend for the first time.
Women reformers also led the Temperance Movement, or the campaign against American drunkenness, which they cited as the root of all societal problems. By 1835, nearly 2 million Americans had taken the "cold water pledge" to forsake hard liquor. Reformed alcoholics toured the country speaking against drunkenness and the state of Maine actually prohibited the sale of alcohol.
As you view the presentation, "Social Reforms," continue working on your questions in 8.02 Reforms.
By 1820, the typical American adult consumed more than 7 gallons of absolute alcohol a year (compared with 2.6 gallons today. A decade later, alcohol consumption decreased to 3 gallons per adult per year, forcing 4,000 distilleries to close.)
